Current Research: Bryant completed her doctorate through Liberty University in Lynchburg, VA and graduated in May. Her dissertation research included an analysis of the past decade of Newbery Award winning children's books for character traits. From the research, Bryant's dissertation outlines the character traits (positive and negative) that are revealed in each of the Newbery Award books from 1997 to 2007.

Additionally, Bryant has been given an amazing opportunity to co-author a series of discipleship curriculum for Global University that targets chldren ages 8-11 all over the world. The first set of the three part series has been published and are available for purchase at www.globalkids.net.

Why you enjoy teaching at SBU? "I enjoy teaching at SBU for many reasons. One is that I am a graduate from here and now have the privilege of teaching with some of my former professors. I am surrounded daily by God-fearing men and women of integrity who continue to serve as role models and friends. Another reason I love SBU is that I get to teach the most wonderful students in the world. I love coming to work each day because I have the pleasure of helping to touch the future teachers and their future students. Because of the position I am in, I am able to influence more children through my students than I ever could have on my own in the public school classroom. A third reason I love teaching at SBU is that I am given some flexibility in scheduling so that I may go home between classes to spend time with my precious children."

Educational and Professional Background: Bryant graduated from SBU in 1997 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary and Early Childhood Education. She then completed a Master of Education degree in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Missouri—Columbia in 1999. In May, 2008, Bryant obtained a Doctorate in Education degree from Liberty University in the areas of Educational Leadership, Curriculum and Instruction, and Reading.

Faith Dedications: Bryant and her family attend and are actively involved at Lakeside Assembly of God in Pittsburg, Missouri. Her uncle is the pastor of the church, her husband plays various instruments in the worship team, and Bryant sings in the choir. Additionally, she is a "fill-in" singer at the Esquire ministry where her husband Robbie is a faithful member of the Esquire worship band.

Who is playing on your iPod? Well, I just got it and am busy trying to get songs on there. So far, I have downloaded Christian praise and worship CDs from college, Robbie has a few bluegrass tunes on it, and Jaron has a couple of Veggie Tales songs.

What book are you currently reading? I am currently reading "The Shack" by William P. Young, "The Mysterious Benedict Society" by Trenton Lee Stewart, and "Diary of a Wimpy Kid" by Jeff Kinney.

What is the best getaway location, local or abroad? I retreat to my own home between classes where I can get rejuvenated by my kids. A wonderful close-by getaway is to take your family to the State Park Marina on Pomme de Terre Lake for fishing, boating, and the best burgers and tenderloin sandwiches you can find!